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Work-Based Learning Foundation logo Work-Based Learning
FoundationSanta Fe, New Mexico
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// Support Our Work

A $1 million founding campaign to take a proven model statewide

The Work-Based Learning Foundation runs on philanthropic support from individuals, family foundations, and businesses across New Mexico who want to see this model — already proven in Farmington and Santa Fe — reach every district in the state.

$0 raised so far — you’d be a founding gift toward our $1,000,000, 3-year Founding Campaign

Jose A. Villarreal, Jr.
// Why donors trust this work

Your gift funds a model that’s already proven, at district scale

Founder Jose A. Villarreal, Jr. built New Mexico’s first district-wide work-based learning initiative in Farmington (2019–2022, 70 employer partners, 200+ interns), then founded and scaled the Santa Fe Public Schools WBL Program from a 22-student pilot into an 80+ partner, 16-sector ecosystem serving 800+ interns since 2022.

Along the way he’s authored and secured $3.2 million in youth workforce grant funding, and the Santa Fe program has logged 108,000+ workforce hours and paid $1.75 million directly to student interns — with a 95% completion rate and 50% converting to employment. This Foundation exists to take that same, tested model statewide.

// Recognition levels

Support Levels

However a gift is given, we make sure it’s seen — from a name on our site to a feature in the Santa Fe New Mexican. Amounts below are a starting draft; adjust to whatever fits your Year One goal.

$250+

Piñon Circle

Individual & family gifts that get the Foundation off the ground.

  • Name listed on the site donor wall
  • Annual impact report by email
$1,000+

Turquoise Circle

For donors who want their support to be visible year-round.

  • Everything in Piñon Circle
  • Featured placement on the donor wall
  • Invitation to the annual Intern Showcase
$5,000+

Adobe Circle

Business and family-foundation-level partners.

  • Everything in Turquoise Circle
  • Named sponsorship of a program element (bootcamp, timekeeping app, etc.)
  • Reserved table at the Intern Showcase & Partner Reception
  • “Proud Partner” window decal & digital badge
$25,000+

Founder’s Circle

Lead gifts that anchor a district launch or a full program year.

  • Everything in Adobe Circle
  • Feature story or press placement with the Santa Fe New Mexican
  • Recognition from the podium at the annual reception
  • Direct briefing with the founder on program impact
  • First right of naming on a new district launch
$100,000+

Visionary Circle

Statewide-scale gifts that fund an entire new district or region.

  • Everything in Founder’s Circle
  • Naming rights on a new district’s WBL program
  • Seat on the Foundation’s advisory council
  • Co-authored press feature on the campaign launch
  • Standing invitation to every district’s intern showcase statewide

Recognition items above a gift’s fair value may affect tax deductibility. We’ll always confirm the deductible amount in writing for gifts tied to events or gifts.